Patent Certificate for Dr Kemp’s Electromagnetic Engine c1851

This unique grouping relates to Dr George Kemp’s electromagnetic motive engine which was patented in England in December 1851. The fascinating and very unusual design focussed on a group of electromagnets in series, which as they each momentarily switched on would attract and pull a metal rod along a tube. The rod was attached to a piston  which in turn drove a wheel making the design not only a very unusual early electric motor, but also one of the first ever patents that used electromagnets to create motion. Obviously Dr Kemp’s belief was that his design would revolutionise multiple industries including factories and transport.  The patent received quite good interest and press when it was announced in 1852, but in the long run Kemp’s invention slipped into obscurity.

This group consists of the original boxed patent certificate and wax seal granted to Dr Kemp in 1851 for his electromagnetic motive concept, as well as two original loan agreements privately taken out by Kemp in spring and summer 1851 to help develop his idea. Also included are photocopies of his patent document as well as a few newspaper articles from 1852 which discuss his invention.

When the first electric motors were being designed in the mid 19th Century there was still no clear decision whether a rotary or horizontal system would be best. Those like Kemp opted for a horizontal design borrowed from the highly successful Steam Engines, but as we know ultimately rotary engines would win through. What is really fascinating about Kemp’s design is here is one of the very first uses of electromagnets to physically move/drag an object. A century later and more powerful AC power would allow people to refine the technique to move whole vehicles such as Maglev for trains. Here in Kemp’s forgotten invention is the very early genesis of that same idea.

These documents and box are offered in good original condition. I don’t have the key for this box so it does not shut fully.  These documents are perfect for anyone interested in preserving and recording the early history of electric motors.

Dimensions of box:  30.5cm wide x 22.5cm deep x 6cm high.